*Read an exclusive pre-launch reviewof the all-new Hyundai Grand i10 here.

The new Hyundai Grand i10 is now in South Africa and we attended its local launch in Cape Town.

The Grand i10 is marketed as a replacement for the Hyundai Getz – a popular and successful model in terms of South African sales. The Getz was successful for a number of reasons. It drove well, was comfortable and had a number of standard features. The all-new Grand i10 offers the same traits as the Getz, and I predict will sell well with the younger market.

There are three derivatives and some bright and vibrant colours to choose from. There’s the 1.25 Motion manual, the 1.25 Fluid manual (which has a some more features) and the 1.25 Fluid which comes with a four-speed automatic gearbox.

Practicality and features

It’s a smart-looking little city car and it follows the typical Hyundai fluidic sculpture design, meaning it has athletic lines. Who said affordable city cars have to be ugly? Thanks to its design, the cabin of the Grand i10 is pleasantly spacious. Fold the back seats down and you’ll have access to 1 202 litres worth of boot space. When compared to the base model i10 (which remains on sale), the Grand i10 is longer and wider.

Hyundai has done a sterling job at providing the Grand i10 with everything you’d ever need in terms of features. The standard specification list is generous. There’s Bluetooth and USB connectivity to the audio system, keyless entry, electrically heated and foldable side mirrors as well as air conditioner, trip computer and central locking. There’s also 14-inch alloy wheels, a full size spare wheel and front fog lights.

Engine

The Hyundai Grand i10 is powered by the Kappa-designated engine. This 1.25-litre four-cylinder motor has 64 kW and 120 Nm, with power going to the front wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox.Fuel consumption is claimed to be 5.9l/100km for the manual, while the four-speed auto is rated at 6.9/100km.

Driving impression

How is it like to drive? Well, initial impressions are good, with the Hyundai Grand i10 feeling quite composed and stable on the roads. The conditions were not the best as our route from Somerset West to Grabouw via Rooi Els was lashed by the first of the major winter storms which Cape Town is infamous for. The crosswinds and driving rain was quite bad, yet the little i10 didn’t feel like it was unstable.

The seats are comfortable and the Hyundai Grand i10 feels well assembled. As far as cabin ergonomics go, I rate the Hyundai Grand i10 highly. You can climb in behind the wheel and all the controls are where you’d expect them. The radio is surprisingly good at loud volumes too (we tried to drown out the gale-force wind while driving)

Pricing for the Hyundai Grand i10

Pricing is competitive and the vehicle comes with the 5 year/150 000 km warranty and roadside assistance plan added. A service plan is for your own account, and I don’t think it’ll dent the overall value for money feeling.

Grand i10 1.25 Motion manual R139 900

Grand i10 1.25 Fluid manual R149 900

Grand i10 1.25 Fluid automatic R159 900